Chrysler’s Sterling Heights assembly plant near Detroit, once threatened with closure, could become the carmaker’s most productive plant.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Fiat-Chrysler chief executive Sergio Marchionne said the plant could also be building Alfa Romeos within the next three years.

Marchionne also confirmed that Chrysler plans an initial public offering in the second half of 2011 and that he will remain CEO of the US carmaker after that process is completed.

Chrysler is investing US$850m at Sterling Heights to make the plant more flexible. A second shift will start operation there in early 2011, adding 900 jobs and taking the total plant workforce to 2,100.

Marchionne said that the factory needs to be able to deal with a variety of vehicles adding: “I wouldn’t be surprised if there was an Alfa Romeo rolling off these lines in the next 36 months.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

He did not say what model this might be but said the future of the plant is assured, barring another collapse of the auto market similar to that in 2009 when Chrysler emerged from a government-funded bankruptcy under the management control of Fiat.

The alliance with Fiat has given Chrysler access to small car technology critical to the company which had become reliant on large SUVs and pickup trucks. It also gives Chrysler access to international markets.

Marchionne described expansion at Sterling Heights as “another step in Chrysler’s comeback story”. It has initially been scheduled to close at the end of this year.

Chrysler’s overhaul also includes 16 new or significantly changed vehicles across its brands. It is building the Chrysler 200, a replacement for the critically panned Sebring sedan, and a redesigned Dodge Avenger at Sterling Heights.